Vitalism, also known as dynamism is the philosophy expounded by Mahāvīra, a prominent teacher of Jainism. It combined the earlier Jain teacher Pārśvanātha 's asceticism and the naturalistic teachings of the Ājīvikas .

 Because life is to be considered sacred and in every living thing, Jains avoid killing any living creature, even down to nits in the hair.  Therefore most Jains' hair will taper off at the end not having ever been trimmed and often monks will wear masks over the mouth to avoid inhaling anything living.